A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs Song 176: “Sympathy for the Devil” by the Rolling Stones, Part One: A Man of Wealth and Taste
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Aug 1, 2024 This episode dives into the intriguing world of the Rolling Stones and their evolution during the 1960s. It explores Alan Klein's game-changing influence on artist management and the band’s strategic shift in American markets. The tensions within the group are laid bare, highlighting Brian Jones' struggles with his place in the band amidst creative collaboration by Mick Jagger and Keith Richards. Listeners also gain insight into the cultural context of their songs, showcasing the balance between artistic expression and commercial pressures.
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Klein's Beatles Ambitions
- Allen Klein targeted managing The Beatles after their US success.
- He initially approached Brian Epstein with a lucrative but deceptive offer from RCA.
Klein and The Dave Clark Five
- Klein targeted the Dave Clark Five, capitalizing on their US success and high UK taxes.
- He offered a tax-reducing investment strategy, taking his commission immediately.
Epstein's Integrity
- Klein leveraged Sam Cooke's US tour with The Beatles to approach Brian Epstein.
- Epstein, known for his honesty, rejected Klein's deceitful offer to switch record labels.